Good question. I think we are all in the process of figuring that one out. I
will say up front that no one should worry about job cuts. I dont anticipate
any positions being eliminated, and as a matter of fact, I believe we will be
adding a number of law enforcement positions in order to provide the necessary
officers to each of the incorporated areas.

I can also tell you that we have begun talks with Islamorada and Key Colony
Beach, and expect to talk with Marathon soon. The contract talks we have
participated in so far have gone very well. Islamorada has indicated they would
like more officers than are currently provided to them, so it looks like once we
sign a contract with them, we will be adding a number of officers to fill those
positions. They have indicated they would like a lieutenant and two or three
sergeants in addition to patrol officers. These positions will all be posted
within the agency first, and officers currently working for the Sheriffs
Office will be given the opportunity to apply for them before we hire anyone
from outside the agency. Keep your eyes open for the job postings if you are
interested. When it comes to the lieutenants position, we will post it within
the agency first as well. Depending on the terms of the contract, we will most
likely choose three candidates for the position. Those candidates will then be
presented to the city for their final decision.

Remember, the agency is still responsible for providing regional
services to everyone in the county, including the city of Key West. These
regional services include all units in the Special Investigations Division (Drug
Investigations, Crimes Against Women and Children, Traffic Enforcement, SWAT,
Dive), K-9 teams, Crime Prevention Officers, School Resource Officers, etc.

You may have heard some people out there criticizing our agency and the way
we do business. Some of them are using inaccurate information in an effort to
discredit us. We have not responded to these people for a good reason: I refuse
to enter into a pointless debate about whether or not we have a professional,
effective, efficient agency. I know, and everyone who works here knows we are
one of the best law enforcement agencies in the state. It is our job to protect
and serve the citizens of Monroe County and we do that exceptionally well. We
should all be proud of the Monroe County Sheriffs Office.

Remember, enforcing the law and keeping order is our business, and we will
continue to do it county wide for everyone. Our mission has not changed. No
matter what you hear, or what anyone may say to the contrary, we are good at
what we do, and we will continue to conduct ourselves professionally.

Elections are just around the corner

Elections are just around the corner, including the election for Sheriff.
During the last election, the politics sometimes turned nasty and there were
some hard feelings generated. I do not want that to happen in the upcoming
election. I would like to stress that, despite the political season, we all must
be able to work closely together without having politics interfere in the
quality of the performance of our duties.

Remember, politicking while on the job is totally unacceptable. What you do
on your own time is your own business, but lets all decide right now to put
the politics on the back burner when we put on our uniforms and go to work.

When the election is over, everyone in the agency must continue working
together. To that end, please treat your fellow employees opinions with
respect, and do not let political disagreements effect the way we all do our
jobs.

Before the election, you will more than likely be meeting candidates both
around the office and in the community while off duty. Please treat these
candidates with respect as well, no matter what your personal feelings may be.

For those of you who have submitted questions, Im sorry
that I could not get you answers for this issue. Before I could submit them, the
Sheriffs wife became ill and he has been out of the office. I will submit
them for answers before the next issue comes out.

The Sheriffs Office Accreditation Team (Mike Scott, Kimm Rothman and Olga
Perez) would like to thank everyone for their help over the past months as they
prepared the agency for State Accreditation.

The formal Accreditation Inspection took place the week of March 13th, and
the inspectors were impressed with the agency. We are being recommended for
Accreditation, and should be signed off on soon.

Thank you to everyone in the agency. You made a tremendous effort, and it
paid off. Good job!

The M.C.S.O. and the Internet

As you are probably aware by now, the Monroe County Sheriff's Office has a
high speed direct connection to the Internet. This connection (and the cost) is
shared between the State Attorneys Office, the Courts, the Public Defenders
Office and us.

This connection allows all of us now unlimited access to the Internet. (Well,
almost unlimited, but Ill explain that in a minute.) You can now fire up your
browser and search on the web for legal research, law enforcement news, etc.

As many of you know theres a ton of stuff out on the World Wide Web. Some
of it is actually useful. I should point out a couple of things. First, theres
a general order that covers what is acceptable for members of the M.C.S.O. to
view and do on the Web. Please refer to chapter 52 for the complete order. Ill
highlight a couple of the more salient points here:

i. No member shall download or otherwise copy any material from the
Internet or any other computer that is illegal or pornographic in nature.

ii. No member shall use the Monroe County Sheriff's Office computers or
network to produce or distribute any material that is illegal or pornographic.

Obviously, there may be exceptions, but these will be handled on a
case-by-case basis and should be cleared through a persons chain of command.

Second, all the traffic to and from the Internet goes through a firewall. (A
firewall is a computer that examines each packet of data that passes through
it.) The firewall is primarily used to protect our internal network from
intruders (i.e. hackers). In doing so, it also monitors and logs all of the
traffic. We use these logs to monitor loads on the network and, as part of the
package, can see whos going to what sites on the Internet. I dont want to
sound like, nor am I, Big Brother. Thats not my purpose. Part of my job is to
monitor and protect our network. You should be aware, however, that this kind of
monitoring does occur.

We also use the firewall to restrict certain types of traffic. Some traffic
(specifically streaming audio and video) puts a tremendous load on the network
and is blocked by the firewall. Our network is a finite resource and we have to
be careful how we use it.

The M.C.S.O. has established a web site at www.keysso.net. (Becky Herrin
maintains this site. So please direct any questions or comments about it to
her.) Theres a lot of good stuff on it (like the General Orders) as well as
some links to other sites of interest. If you would like to see anything added
to the site, or have any suggestions please contact Becky at beckyherrin@keysso.net.

I have also set up Internet email for everyone in the agency. (If you havent
gotten a letter about your email account by now, please call me and Ill get
one set up for you.) I have set everyone up pretty much the same, i.e. using
their first initial and full last name for their email account. (Therefore, if
you wanted to send the ever lovely and wonderful Bob Bruening mail, youd use
his first initial b and his last name bruening and add @keysso.net
to the end. So Bobs email address is bbruening@keysso.net.)

This email is our external email. It is not what were going to use
to replace the AVOffice mail system. (Thats another article.) The email
address you have been given is to distribute to your professional contacts
outside the agency. You can use this to send (or receive) any kind of e-mail
that you would care to (i.e. pictures, documents, etc.). You should keep in mind
that since this email system is owned and maintained by the Sheriffs Office,
it falls under all the appropriate public records laws which, for the most part,
say that everything you send and receive is a public document (with exceptions
for criminal investigative, criminal intelligence, and some other types of
information).

If you want to check your agency e-mail from home, you can dial in using any
internet connection, access the Sheriffs Office web site (www.keysso.net) and
you will find a mail connection there. Then, simply log in using the same user
name and password you use to log onto the mainframe computer system.

If you have any questions or comments about our network (including the
Internet connection) please fell free to contact me at 292-7027 or even better,
(youll get brownie points) by email at mgrattan@keysso.net.

Detectives from the Special Investigations Division have been
busy over the past month. Among their accomplishments:

A warrants sweep in Marathon netted ten arrests on drug
charges

A search warrant on Stock Island resulted in the seizure of
7 ounces of cocaine, 3 ounces of Marijuana and $4,000.00 in cash. One man
was arrested.

A search warrant on Stock Island resulted in the seizure of
seven pounds of marijuana with one man arrested.

Two search warrants in Marathon resulted in the seizure of
$2,400.00 cash and two arrests on drug charges.

Thats a lot of drugs and dealers off the streets! Good job,
detectives!

In the photo: Cocaine and cash
seized at a Stock Island residence.

District Three Zone Meeting

Sgt. Lou Caputo gets together regularly with
his upper Keys Zone 302 Advisory Board to make sure the citizens in that
zone are happy with the way his officers are doing things. At the
meetings, he reports activities to the board, and receives suggestions
from them about what they would like to see accomplished.

Traffic Enforcement

By Traffic Enforcement Sgt. Larry Kelley

The Traffic Enforcement Unit wishes all of you a very safe and happy new
millennium. On the heels of this occasion I am going to try to keep an article
from the unit in each of the upcoming Rap Sheet editions. I will have bits of
information on current events we are engaged in and the support functions that
we have been performing. I will also try to address any issues or questions that
you may have in regards to the unit and our activities.

The Traffic Unit recently underwent an overhaul of equipment and at that time
we were able to free up 6 excellent traffic radar units with dual antennas.
These units were sent out for certification and then turned in for distribution
to patrol.

During November and December coordination was made with FHP and two separate
Radar Operator Certification classes were given, one in Islamorada and one in
Marathon. Both were a success with only one hitch but that was straightened out
and the show went on. This enabled 16 officers to become Radar certified. A
Laser Operator class was also offered and new laser operators are now free to
terrorize speeders in crowded school zones or high volume roads where the use of
a radar unit can be difficult. The Traffic Unit has three Laser Units and with
prior notification a request can be made through the Traffic Unit Supervisor for
the temporary use of one of these units.

The Traffic Division during a recent
inspection.

Motor units escorted hundreds of motorcycles from the ABATE club in their
annual Christmas Toys for Tots motorcycle run both from Key West and Key Largoat
the same timeto Marathon. This is a very refreshing escort for us as we
usually confront these bikers in more unpleasant situations throughout the year.

The Motor Unit also escorted the Marathon Volunteer Fire Department on their
annual Christmas Caroling trip through the Middle Keys. Unfortunately Sgt. (now
Lieutenant) Rick Ramsay was injured when an ambulance took an unexpected left
turn in front of his motor. Rick is finehe only lost about one pound of skin
but a ton of his pride was injured. I told him a long time agothere are two
types of Motor Officersthose that have been down and those that are going
down. He believes me now. It was his first time on the pavementwait a minuteI
stand corrected. It wasnt his first time on the pavementit was just his
first time on the pavement due to a motorcycle accident. Ask Rick if you want
more details. Sorry RickyI had to go there.

During the first week of this new year I detailed Deputies Diane and Kevin
Mimosa to escort a young lady who was attempting to ride her bike from Key Largo
to Key Westa distance of 100 miles. She was gong to try for twenty miles each
day. This is a stretch for even an adult in good shape. But the story gets even
better. Candice Wagener is 15 years old and suffers from a debilitating disease
called Cornelia de Lange Syndrome.

Diane and Kevin Mimosa, pictured with Candice Wagener
and her parents after the 100 mile bike ride.

Diane and Kevin contacted Candices parents, Dr. and
Mrs. Craig Wagener of the Lower Keys, and set up the escort. One of them
drove a Traffic Unit and the other rode a police bicycle. They did this
five days in a row. The operation was such a success that the Wageners
wanted to present the Mimosas with an award. I invited them to the Traffic
Units monthly meeting at the Turtle Hospital in Marathon. The Sheriff
attended and we all met Candice and found her to be a uniquely strong
young lady.

The Wageners told us that Diane and Kevin were an inspiration to
Candice and that some days Candice needed special attention to keep going and
Diane and Kevin were right there with the words needed. I congratulate them for
their attention and dedication to duty.

In January the Traffic Unit assisted with traffic safety control for the 5 K
Run at Sombrero Resort. Just another weekend detail that requires Traffic
Officers to stand posts and work dirty gritty traffic points. But you might have
noticedthat is what we live for.

Other duties performed by the Traffic Unit in the last few months have been
to run voter ballots up and down the entire length of the Keys for the
Supervisor of Elections and stand security at all County Commission Meetings in
all the Districts. We also performed security and escort for past President
George Bush in Islamorada. It was during this Fishing Tournament that television
fishing legend Curt Gowdys car was ticketed in a Disabled Space by an
un-named Traffic Deputy. The Gowdys paid $250 for that one, but realized
their mistake. I remember 8 years ago when I ticketed Vice President Dan Quails
limousine in a Disabled Space at the NOAA station in Key Largo; maybe he couldnt
spell disabled correctly. Oh well; we all have our moments.

We have also supported District One on numerous occasions in school zones and
parking lots at the request of Capt. Joe Leiter and Lt. Bruce Winegarden. I
would like to say that they are trying hard to get proper school zone markings
and signs throughout the district. Im grateful for their efforts in this
matter as this signage is badly needed.

We will have to keep giving attention to the Courthouse parking lot in Key
West for a while though. That place is a true mess. While Deputy Butch Albury
was ticketing illegally parked vehicles on the perimeter the drivers told him
that they would not mind getting the tickets as long as the violators who parked
inside the lot without permits were ticketed. We could have written an entire
book of parking tickets that day.

Capt. Leiter, I promise we will keep on top of this and the school zones. We
have also provided Road Patrol coverage during the latest injury and sick spell
in the District and were glad to come to your aid. Let me know when you need
further coverage.

We also assisted District One with the Millennium Festival in Key West. By
the waya funny thing happened on our way to the New Years Eve Roll Call.
We all met to eat at Dennys well prior to the beginning of shift and got up
to pay with over 15 minutes to spare. When, wouldnt you know it, a juvenile
gang of at least 10 Separate Checks From Hell were in front of us at the
register. The cashier, her first day on the job no doubt, was overwhelmed and we
were a bit late for Roll Call. My apologies to Lt. Winegarden. He supervised the
detail and did an excellent job putting together a fine crew that made the very
long night pass quickly and safely, even if not quietly. I must say that the
fireworks display in the city was one of the most beautiful I have ever seen.

District Three has had their hands full. The Traffic Unit set up and
supervised a massive off duty detail in Key Largo at Pennekamp State Park for
the Triathlon. Over 40 officers were given the opportunity to work for off duty
pay. This event will be coming again this year and I am planning the same
coverageand even though I was unsuccessful the first time, I will again try
to get you the pay you deserve.

Capt. Bell-Thomson asked for some support in setting up traffic control for a
Running Event in Islamorada on New Years Day. The Traffic Unit was unable to
respond to this, as we were in Key West standing post on Duval Street the prior
night for the New Years Festival. She set up the traffic control for this
event and I am told it went off very smoothly. Congratulations on a job we wish
we could have worked with you on.

Other activities that we have done in the Upper Keys are numerous wolf packs
on the stretch and in Islamorada where the Motor Unit has been hammering the Center
Lane Mafia and the Old Highway Racers. We do love our job so.

At the request of Deputy Larry Benedict, the Motor Unit set up at the
entrance of Ocean Reef Club numerous days over a period of two weeks and wrote
nearly 80 tickets for everything from expired tags to criminal traffic offenses.
We wrote some drivers twice for the same violations on subsequent days. I wrote
one lady a ticket for unlawful passing who told me that she was 5 minutes late
for a tee-off time.

Sgt. Roy Bogue has been in contact with me and given me much information on
places to go and the violations to find in the Islamorada area. A note to all
Deputies, Sergeants, Lieutenants et allet me know where we can find the nary-do-wells
and we will hammer em.

We assisted Sergeant Tom Kiffney and District Three in a DUI checkpoint in
February. Tom has done many of these before and it is a pleasure to work with
him. His checkpoints are always safe and successful. He is a consummate
professional when it comes to targeting DUIs and getting them off the street.

I know this has been lengthy, but I wanted to get you up to date on our
activities. I will look forward to contact with any of you who have information,
criticism or complaints. That is why I am here. And the reason why the Traffic
Unit is here is to support you in your duties throughout the County.

By Captain Robert Rothman and his Assistant Mary Cohen, the BOC Accreditation
Team

This is the first article in what will become a continuing effort to inform
and update all employees on the accreditation process for the Bureau of
Corrections. Following are some common questions that are asked about
accreditation.

Why should the BOC become accredited?

This process will allow administrative staff to remedy deficiencies and
upgrade the quality of correctional programs and services. The recognized
benefits from such a process include:

improved management

a defense against lawsuits

potential reduction in liability through adoption of sound operating
practices

demonstration of a "good faith" effort to improve conditions
of confinement

The Florida Corrections Accreditation Commission, Inc. (FCAC) is responsible
for all aspects of the state corrections accreditation process. The overall
purpose of the Commission is to improve the delivery of correctional services
through an accreditation program based on Florida law and practices.

What are the steps in the Accreditation Process?

All facilities follow the same basic path to achieve accreditation. The steps
are:

the facility signs a contract (usually for a two year period)

applicable accreditation fees are paid based on bed capacity

a self-assessment is conducted by the facility to determine levels of
compliance

an "On-Site" Assessment is conducted by trained Florida
assessors

an accreditation decision is made by the Florida Corrections
Accreditation Commission

accredited status is granted for three years, at the end of which the
facility may apply for reaccreditation

Once accredited, all facilities submit an annual statement to the FCAC
Executive Director verifying continued compliance with the standards. Also, a
subsequent monitoring visit may be conducted at any time during the
accreditation period to ensure continued compliance with the appropriate
standards.

Right now we are in the self-assessment phase. During this time we will be
conducting a comprehensive review of all operational aspects of the facility.

The standards used for accreditation address services, programs, and
operations essential to good correctional management. These include
administrative and fiscal controls, staff training and development, physical
plant, safety and emergency procedures, sanitation, food service, rules and
discipline - a variety of subjects that comprise good correctional and business
practice.

These standards are under continual revision to reflect changing practice,
current case law and new knowledge.

At the end of the self-assessment period, a "Self-Evaluation
Report" is submitted to the FCAC Executive Director. This report identifies
levels of compliance with the standards (agencies must meet 100% of the
mandatory standards, and at least 90% of the applicable non-mandatory
standards). The term "applicable non-mandatory standards" means that,
in some cases, not all standards may apply to a given facility by virtue of
function. For example, a mandatory standard may require certain criteria be met
to house juveniles, yet at one facility no juveniles are housed; instead they
are transported to another site. This, then is "not applicable" by
virtue of function. There are 266 total standards (82 mandatory and 184
non-mandatory).

After the self-assessment period is completed, we will do a mock inspection
(scheduled for May 8th-12th). We will have approximately two months to fix
problem areas before our real "On-Site" inspection (scheduled for July
18th-21st). Your full cooperation will be appreciated.

If you have any further questions, contact the Accreditation Manager, Captain
Rothman, or the Accreditation Specialist, Mary Cohen, at 293-7338.

New Camera System

By Major Tommy Taylor

I want to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to the
Bureau of Corrections team for your outstanding work. Your long hours and
dedication to the mission of the Sheriffs Office and the Bureau of
Corrections did not go unnoticed. Keep up the great work.

The new security camera system installation is almost complete. Plantation
and Marathon jails are nearly finished with the exception of some minor
adjustments to the system. The main jail is about 90% complete.

Our overall security posture is greatly enhanced by the new system. Improving
our physical security posture in the jail will not only give us more eyes and
ears with the cameras, but will enhance our officers safety. Sheriff Roth
authorized the money for the system out of the Federal Forfeiture Fund to
further the efficiency and effectiveness of jail operations.

Officer Spotlights

Detention Deputy Todd
Silvers

Todd Silvers was born August 3, 1967 at Homestead Air Force Base. His family
moved to Key West in 1970. He graduated from Key West High School in 1985,
joined the Army on 1986 and spent 8 years serving his country. Todd served his
two Army tours in Germany as a Communications Specialist.

Todd returned to Key West in 1994 and was hired by the Sheriffs Office in
May of 1995. He is currently assigned to night watch and is a member of the jail
Corrections Emergency Response Team (CERT).

On a personal note, Todd enjoys collecting sports cards, playing on the
computer and spending time with his girlfriend Danette.

Lt. Joe Saly

Joe was born in Toledo, Ohio, a product of Hungarian immigrant parents, and
was raised in a rural area where he developed an early love for hunting, fishing
and the outdoors in general.

He spent most of his adult life in a twenty five year career in food service
in the Chicago area. The work was demanding but it provided the means for Joe
and his wife Kate to travel, hunt and fish in many parts of the world.

After entering semi-retirement, they decided to build a home in the Keys and
possibly buy a mom and pop business.

During the summer of 1989, while talking to his real estate agent, Phil
Ferraro (a nice guy, but I dont think Id buy anything from him), they
convinced each other to apply for jobs as C.O.s for the new jail being built in
Plantation Key. They were acceptedand the rest is history.

The international hunting and fishing trips are few and far between now, but
he developed a love for fishing in the back country and teaching young people to
have an appreciation for outdoor sports.

Det. Dep. Gardiner Betts

Gardiner Betts was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts October 4, 1939. He is
the oldest of five children and graduated from Rindge Technical High School in
Cambridge.

Upon graduation, he entered the U.S. Marine Corps and served four years,
doing brief tours in Hawaii and Vietnam. He got married during the last year he
was in the military, and was honorably discharged.

Gardiner returned to Boston, where he lived with his wife and two children.
Those children, a daughter and a son, are now grown and have children of their
own.

He and his wife later divorced and he worked as a transit bus driver. He
eventually met and married his present wife Susan while working for a florist in
Boston.

The two of them went into the floral business, but got tired of the cold New
England weather and decided to relocate to Key West, Florida.

After holding a few jobs in Key West, Gardiner applied for and was hired by
the Sheriffs Office. He has just completed his fifth year with the Sheriffs
Office.

Gardiner and his wife, Susan have a beautiful daughter Julia Brianna who will
turn 3 years old next month.

Lazaro has been a member of the Sheriff's Office since March 23, 1992. On
December 7, 1999, Lazaro was working in the Stock Island area undercover when he
heard a "burglary in-progress call". Upon arrival at the apartment
complex, Lazaro was able to ascertain a general description of the subject from
the victim and immediately started to canvas Old Shrimp Road. With the subject's
description in hand, Lazaro recognized the individual emerging from the
mangroves. After confronting the subject, the subject pulled a screwdriver and a
knife and pointed at Lazaro in an aggressive manner. Lazaro immediately started
issuing verbal commands in which the subject complied and was taken into custody
without further incident.

In a separate matter, Lazaro was assigned to our Internal Affairs Division to
work undercover on a difficult criminal investigation involving another member
of this agency. After several weeks of this investigation, Lazaro was
instrumental in making a criminal case against this member. Lazaro should be
commended for his actions and the service oriented approach he takes towards his
job.

Ernie has been a member of the Sheriff's Office since January 22, 1996, and
currently holds the District I Sergeant's position within our Reserve Unit.
Ernie has put in hundreds of hours of community service at many of the Community
Relations Children's Fairs, Crime Prevention Fairs, and other events that were
sponsored throughout the year by the Community Relation's Division. He's always
available and doesn't seem to know the meaning of the word "NO"! Ernie
is one of the most up beat, supportive, and positive individuals working for
this agency with a heart of gold and a spirit that is refreshing.

Mike has been a member of the Sheriff's Office since May 9, 1991, and
currently holds the First Sergeant's position within the Bureau of Corrections.
On many occasions over the past year, Mike has been called upon for assistance
and guidance when dealing with unusual occurrences. It doesn't matter if it's a
Holiday or 2:00 a.m. in the morning Mike is always courteous, helpful, and
cheerfully provides the necessary instructions to his fellow officers. Mike also
takes an active role in recruiting for the agency and has traveled throughout
the state promoting the Sheriff's Office. During his spare time, Mike actively
participates in the Sheriff's Office Shooting Team for the Law Enforcement
Olympics and is a medallist from 1997. In 1999 Mike missed the medal by only one
point in the Bull's-Eye competition. This year is his year

Charlene has been a member of the Sheriff's Office since August 10, 1994.
Along with being a Reserve Officer, Charlene works as a Communications Officer
out of our Marathon Substation. Charlene is known to be the backbone of the
Reserves in District II. She is dedicated to the program and is always there
when the district needs reserves to help out. Charlene should be commended for
her actions and the service oriented approach she takes towards her job.

Cadet of the Quarter: Explorer William (Joey) Haney, Bureau of Operations,
Explorer Section

Joey has been a member of Post 905 for the past 2 1/2 years, and has logged
in over 100 hours of community service. Joey has always been eager to learn and
has taken an active part in recruiting for the post. Recently, Joey took over
the leadership position on the new Junior Post and has showed outstanding
leadership qualities. Joey is currently organizing a dance at his church to
raise money for the upcoming American Cancer Relay for Life event held the first
week in May.

Lou has been a member of the Sheriff's Office since September 30, 1991. Over
the past several months Lou has been addressing the needs of the homeless in his
area by creating "Project Good Samaritan". This program allows the
collection of basic items of need to be carried in each patrol car for
distribution by deputies who encounter someone without resources. Lou also heads
up our Reserve Program in District III. Under his leadership, the Reserves spend
their weekends on bicycles and on foot going out into the community and
addressing crime and quality of life issues in our troubled neighborhoods, post
house numbers on homes, provide information on local services, and make contact
with the residents to discuss their law enforcement concerns.

Ernie has been a member of the Sheriff's Office since January 22, 1996, and
currently holds the District I Sergeant's position within our Reserve Unit.
Ernie has put in hundreds of hours of community service at many of the Community
Relations Children's Fairs, Crime Prevention Fairs, and other events which were
sponsored throughout the year by the Community Relation's Division. He's always
available and doesn't seem to know the meaning of the word "NO"! Ernie
is one of the most up beat, supportive, and positive individuals working for
this agency with a heart of gold and a spirit that is refreshing.

Mike has been a member of the Sheriff's Office since May 9, 1991, and
currently holds the First Sergeant's position within the Bureau of Corrections.
On many occasions over the past year, Mike has been called upon for assistance
and guidance when dealing with unusual occurrences. It doesn't matter if it's a
Holiday or 2:00 a.m. in the morning Mike is always courteous, helpful, and
cheerfully provides the necessary instructions to his fellow officers. Mike also
takes an active role in recruiting for the agency and has traveled throughout
the state promoting the Sheriff's Office. During his spare time, Mike actively
participates in the Sheriff's Office Shooting Team for the Law Enforcement
Olympics and is a medallist from 1997. In 1999 Mike missed the medal by only one
point in the Bull's-Eye competition. This year is his year ..

David has been a member of the Sheriff's Office since November 2, 1998. Since
his appointment as a Reserve, David has assisted the Honor Guard in forming a
Piping Corps which has helped enhanced the image, prestige, and presence of the
Sheriff's Office. In addition to his honor guard duties, David agreed to assist
the Marathon Substation by volunteering his time as the School Crossing Guard in
Marathon. Since that time, he has performed this function twice a week for the
past six months which has been an invaluable service to the Road Patrol Section
who otherwise would have to provide the appropriate coverage. David should be
commended for his actions and the service oriented approach he takes towards his
job.

Erik has been a member of Post 904 for the past year and has proven to be a
valuable asset. When Erik became involved in the post, he participated in boot
camps, delegate meetings, community safety days, public awareness programs, and
work projects. Erik has been a part of the success of the teen court program and
continues to work closely with the State Attorney's Office to provide
continuity. Over the summer the Florida Association of School Resource Officer's
hosted a conference in Key West. Erik, along with the assistance of his post,
did a great deal of prep work for the conference to ensure its success. Erik is
also known for his artistry and was responsible for the conference's theme which
was printed on over 300 t-shirts and handed out to the conference participants.
Between participating in the post and after school activities, Erik has
maintained a high GPA.

June 516th, 2000, from 8 a.m. until 5
p.m., Monday through Friday. To be taught in Marathon at the Florida Monroe
Regional Service Center, 2796 Overseas Highway, mm 47.5

Description: This 80 hour course is required by FDLE to become certified
by the CJSTC as a Criminal Justice Instructor. Course is intended for certified
law enforcement and corrections officers and selected agency support personnel.
It is designed to train participants in topics such as adult learning theory,
human diversity for instructions, lesson plan development, test question
development, trainer liability and other topics related to techniques of
instruction.

To Enroll: Monroe County deputies and Key West Police officers contact
their internal training divisions. Other interested individuals should contact
the Institute of Criminal Justice. Enrollment is on a first-come first-served
basis as received from local agencies. Certified law enforcement officers in
Region 14 have first priority.

To obtain an application or for further information, please contact the
Institute of Criminal Justice at (305) 296-9081 ext. 200 or visit room P210,
Public Safety Building, FKCC, 5901 College Road, Stock Island

Union Institute offers degree programs in the Keys

Without interrupting your career, you can earn a bachelors or doctorate
degree in the Florida Keys through the Florida Center of the Union Institute
based in Miami.

Credits earned at Florida Keys Community College or any other accredited
educational institution may be applied toward completing a bachelors degree
at the institute. Financial aid is available and the programs are tailored to
meet individual needs.

Following the first semesters required courses in the Keys, all teaching
is done on a tutorial basis.

The doctorate program has some 1,200 candidates enrolled nationwide. More
information on it can be obtained by calling the school office in Cincinnati at
(800)486-3116.

During the last five years, an outreach program from the Miami Center has
offered Keys residents a chance to obtain a bachelors degree. The most
popular fields have been business administration, education, psychology and
criminal justice.

For more information about the Institute, contact the center at
(800)486-7141.

For active employees, the basic policy is $20,000.00 per employee up to the
age of 70; $13,400.00 for ages 70-74; and $10,000.00 for ages 75 and over. For
accidental deaths it is double the basic policy. The amount of life insurance
for retired employees is different. If you have any questions you should contact
the Employee Benefits Section.

2. Are my dependents covered with Life Insurance, or can I pay for this
coverage separately?

No, Life Insurance is provided for the employee only and is not available for
dependents.

3. How can I make beneficiary changes?

Beneficiary changes can and should be made any time they are needed. To make
a change, a new Benefit Record Card must be completed and signed. These cards
can be obtained from the from the Human Resources Section or the Employee
Benefits Section.

: Employees on a regular
status may apply for reimbursement for courses/training taken that relate to
their job, after they have been employed for six months. For an application or
further information, contact the Training Division.

Credit Union: Monroe County is a member of the Southernmost Credit Union,
located in the City Electric lot off Grinnell Street. The Credit Union offers a
savings program with payroll deduction privileges, as well as a Christmas club
account and a loan program. For more information call the Southernmost Credit
Union at 296-6568.

Sick Leave Pool: The purpose of this program is to provide employees with
an emergency pool of sick leave hours in cases of prolonged absence due to
illness or disability. To be eligible, one must be a full time employee,
employed for at least one year. Once enrolled, each member of the pool may be
eligible to receive up to 240 hours from the pool for a documented illness. (See
General Operations Manual 9:11 - 9:14

Direct Deposit: You may have the option to have your paycheck directly
deposited to the financial institution of your choice. Partial deposits may be
made to a maximum of three different accounts to any bank in the country.

Fitness Program: As part of the Sheriff's Office wellness program, each
member has the opportunity to schedule an appointment with one of the certified
fitness instructors to receive a fitness program designed specifically for them.
The instructors are: Lt. Mitch Snider - Training Director, 292-7010 or 292-7011,
Jim Painter - Data Processing Supervisor 292-7028.

Anti-Smoking Incentive Program: The Monroe County Sheriff's Office will
assist employees who wish to quit smoking in the purchase of a
medically-approved, anti-smoking medication. The office will reimburse the
employee up to $150.00, this is a one time offer only. Once your receipts total
$150.00, forward them along with a requisition to Human Resources to the
attention of Michael J. Scott, Executive Director or Donna Moore, Personnel
Administrator. This offer is good after six months of employment.

Weight Loss Program: The Monroe County Sheriff's Office will assist
members in a doctors certified weight loss program. The office will reimburse
the employee up to $150.00, this is a one time offer only. Once your receipts
total $150.00, forward them along with a requisition to Human Resources to the
attention of Michael J. Scott, Executive Director or Donna Moore, Personnel
Administrator. This offer is good after six months of employment.

Banking: Payroll checks can be cashed at the First National Bank of the
Florida Keys. Direct Deposit of your check is also available. Contact the
Finance Division for more information.

Domestic Partnership: Employees who are in committed relationships who
qualify under the Domestic Partnership Resolution may apply for certain benefits
which would otherwise only be available to married partners. For more
information, contact the Employee Benefits Section at (305) 292-4446.

Family Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA): FMLA requires covered employers
to provide up to twelve (12) calendar weeks of paid or unpaid, job-protected
leave for eligible employees for the following reasons:

1. To care for the employee's child after birth, or placement for adoption or
foster care.

2. To care for the employee's spouse, son, daughter, parent or domestic
partner who has a serious health condition.

3. For a serious health condition that makes the employee unable to perform
the employee's job.

Be consistent. Dont do personal things when you are scheduled to work.
Make a To Do list and prioritize your tasks.

Do the most difficult job first.

Youll be doing it when you have the most energy and motivation. If you
tackle the toughest job first, the rest of your tasks will seem much easier.

Dont allow yourself to get interrupted by others emergencies

How many times have you had your tasks planned, and other people keep coming
to you with their problems that only you can fix? Learn to say no in a polite
but firm manner. For example, say I would really like to assist you with
that, but I also have a project which I must complete for my boss today. If you
can schedule some time with me so that it is on my calendar, I would be more
than happy to help you.

Organize your workspace

The better organized your workspace, the more time efficient you will be. The
time it takes you to search through all of your piles of papers could be spent
working on the new projects you are being given.

NSA has Photo Contest

Calling all Shutter Bugs! The National Sheriffs Association is holding its
first annual Sheriff Magazine Photo Competition. All sworn Law Enforcement
Officers and administrative staff are eligible to enter. You dont need to be
a professional photographer to win and entering is free. Winning photographs
will be published in Sheriff magazine, and winners will receive valuable prize
packages.

Enter your best pictures for the following four categories:

Last Full Measure of Devotion:

Memorialize Americas law enforcement professionals who have dedicated
their lives to protect and serve. Photos may honor (living or deceased) family
members, colleagues, or historical figures, or symbolically depict the law
enforcement profession.

Our Grand Old Flag:

Create a patriotic tribute to this cherished symbol of Americas greatness.

Animals on Parade:

The human-animal bond is strong among law enforcement officers and their
four-legged companions. Pay tribute to that faithful K-9 or tireless equestrian.
Photos may be poignant, humorous or dramatic.

Its a Small, Small World:

Show the world how sheriffs and their deputies positively impact the lives
of Americas children.

Please allow me to take a minute of your time to introduce myself and my
partner and explain an exciting opportunity. My name is Joe Woodall and my
partner's name is Rick Canfield. We have recently been selected to coauthor
Chicken Soup for the Lifesaving Soul, by Jack Canfield and Associates, Santa
Barbara, California.

We represent 35 years of emergency services related experience. Rick's
experience has been derived as a counselor/therapist with the St. Luke's
Behavioral Health System. During his tenure he has worked with countless fire,
law enforcement, hospital and pre-hospital care givers, helping them in a
counselor/therapist capacity. The majority of my experience in emergency
services has been derived during my current tenure as a professional
firefighter/EMT.

We view our Chicken Soup book as an opportunity to acknowledge and honor
those who go the extra mile in an effort to serve their fellow humans.

The short stories that we are hoping to receive will serve to uplift the
souls and rekindle the spirits of the firefighters, police officers, nurses,
doctors, paramedics, emergency medical technologists, military personnel, organ
donors and all others who serve so courageously and give so much at the
intersection of life and death.

Further, through honoring those who serve and have served, we will be able to
share their stories and experiences with those who have been the recipients of
their valor, as well as those who simply appreciate the efforts and dedication
of these brave men and women.

Chapter titles include: How What You Do Has Changed You, Lifesaving Miracles,
Acts of Kindness, Acts of Love, Lifesaving Pets, Acts of Heroism, Living a
Dream, Overcoming Obstacles, Thank You Stories, Going Above and Beyond the Call
of Duty.

We view you and your organization as excellent vehicles for the recruitment
of these stories. Please assist us in getting the word out. If possible, we
would appreciate an opportunity to write a short piece for any publication that
reaches others in your organization. It would also be very helpful if you could
pass the word along to the members of your organization, requesting that they
submit their personal stories, experiences and perspectives.

Please share in this opportunity to give back to those who so bravely give.
We can be contacted by phone, mail, or e-mail at your earliest convenience.
Thank you for your valuable time.

Art Behind Bars, the art-based community service program for female inmates
in the Monroe County Detention Center, is pleased to announce that this is the
sixth year in a row that students in the program have made Valentines for
Veterans in South Florida VA Hospital in Miami. This brings the total number of
hand-made valentines to more than 500 in 6 years. Furthermore, a mixed-media
painting was also completed for the Veterans. Officer Cathy Burch contributed a
beautiful large banner to accompany the artwork. In addition, a hand-painted
baby quilt was donated to Wesley House for their Valentines Day fundraiser.

For more information about the Art Behind Bars program, visit their web site
at www.artbehindbars.org.

Diet Tips

Diets that work dont require you to follow drastic eating regimens or feel
guilty if you sneak a brownie.

The real secrets: Portion control...moderation ..and variety. Use these
secrets to trim calories.

Make small changes over time: Eating habits are the hardest ones to
change. But small, gradual changes are fairly easy. Examples: If you drink 2%
milk (121 calories in eight ounces) switch to 1% (102 calories) and then to skim
(86 calories) over several months. Use reduced fat sour cream and cottage
cheese.

Dont avoid treats completely: Quite simply, sugar tastes good. And it
doesnt make you fat unless you eat a great deal of it. Souse sugar to your
advantage. Example: If you want chocolate, eat it at the end of a meal, when you
are less likely to overindulge.

Eat high-water foods: Fruits, vegetables, nonfat milk and broth
based soups contain a lot of waterso you get a lot of volume and few
calories.

Choose proteins carefully: A 2.9 ounce serving of lean sirloin steak is
comparable in calories to a 4.8 ounce serving of fish or 3.9 ounces of turkey
breast. The larger portions of fish and turkey are more satisfying. Beans,
low-fat milk and yogurt are also low-calorie, high-volume ways to eat protein.

Protect your identity

Social Security numbers are commonly used in computer record keeping. Your
SSN gives a thief access to your entire identityand all information that is
associated with it financially.

Self-defense: Only disclose your Social Security Number to private
companies when there are tax consequences, such as opening an interest-bearing
account at a bank. Most insurance companies will back off if you refuse to give
your SSN. As a fallback position, offer to provide the last four digits.

Review your Social Security statement, which the government now
automatically mails annually to every worker over age 25 (about three months
before his/her birthday). If needed sooner: www.ssa.gov.

Never put your Social Security Number on your checks...If a private
business asks for your SSN on an application, simply leave the space blank or
write refused. Most companies will not question thisor will back off
when you ask to see a written policy requiring your SSN.

Did you know .

Antibiotics offset birth control pills? Some antibiotics interfere with womens
hormone levelsmaking birth control pills less effective. Self-defense: A
couple should use a condom during, and for one week after, antibiotic use.

The Bureau of
Corrections recently said goodbye to the Director of Records, James
Aguiar. He moved to the Ocala area with his family. Good luck, Rocky!

Toll Free Numbers

Our toll free phone number is going statewide. We have a toll free number
here at the headquarters' building, and over the past few weeks my office
(Tamara Snider) has been working on changing over the number to the State of
Florida Suncom System.

With this change, each call will only cost 6.8 per minutes and will now be
available for calls throughout the State of Florida.

If you are traveling on Sheriffs Office business and need to call someone
at the headquarters' building, it will save money if you use this 800 number. It
will ring at the switchboard, and you can be transferred from there to any
office in the building.

The number is 1-800-273-COPS (2677).

Special Olympics Torch Run

Its that time again! The Special Olympics Torch Run is coming up on April
14th. T-shirts are currently available from Records Supervisor Pat Silvers for
$12.00. You may also pick up your application to participate in the Torch Run
while you are there getting your shirt. If you actually show up to participate
in the run (even if you walk, roller blade or ride in the Trolley) you will get
a bonus tank top for NO EXTRA CHARGE! See Pat for details, or call her at
292-7050.

This year-shirt design

For Sale:

Chihuahuas for sale: Detention Deputy Lenny Alonzo has full blooded
Chihuahuas for sale, $250.00 per dog (no papers). Three males are available.
Contact Lenny at the Detention Center, 293-7300.

Transportation Supervisor
Anthony Campana recently had the opportunity to meet and have his picture
taken with a man he calls the greatest hockey player who ever lived.
Shaking Campanas hand in the photo is Bobby Orr who plays defense for
the Boston Bruins.

Police Memorial Fountain

The Sheriffs Office has a new Police
Memorial at the Headquarters Building on Stock Island. A beautiful
fountain is surrounded by marble monuments to those officers slain in
Monroe County and in the City of Key West, with a marble bench in front
for those who wish to sit and contemplate the sacrifice of the
memorialized officers. This years Police Memorial Ceremony in the Lower
Keys will be held at the new Memorial Fountain May 19th at 7 p.m.

Dedicated to those dispatchers who give of themselves, 24 hours
a day.

Mommy went to Heaven, but I need her here today,
My tummy hurts and I fell down, I need her right away.
911, can you tell me how to find her in the phone book?
Is Heaven in the yellow part, I don't know where to look.
I think my daddy needs her too, at night I hear him cry.
I hear him call her name sometimes, but I really don't know why.
Maybe if I call her, she will hurry home to me.
Is Heaven very far away, is it across the sea?
She's been gone a long, long time she needs to come home now!
I really need to reach her, but I simply don't know how.
Help me find the number please, is it listed under "Heaven"?
I can't read all these big words, I am only seven.
I'm sorry 911, I didn't mean to make you cry.
Is your tummy hurting too, or is there something in your eye?
I am calling the Police cuz maybe they will know.
Mommy said when we need help that's where we should go.
Thank you for telling me that it will be okay
Mommy said if the police tell you something you can believe it right away.
Goodnight 911... when I reach her, I'll tell my mommy too
That tonight I talked to someone as nice as you.

Deputies and Detectives can help Crime Stoppers and at the same time get more
criminal information to help solve and close cases. Law enforcement officers
know that in most cases the best intelligence comes from people not from
physical evidence. Someone always seems to know something about a crime
committed by someone else. Crime Stoppers can provide an avenue to get
information from people who dont want to get involved and dont want to get
their names on a report by talking to the cops. Crime Stoppers can do this by
providing anonymity and reward money. Someone who knows about a crime can report
what they know while remaining anonymous and collecting a reward of up to one
thousand dollars. Crime Stoppers is working in the Keys. Crime Stopper tips have
help law enforcement make over 120 arrests and seize drugs, cash and property
valued at over 120 thousand dollars. However, the program has the potential to
help us solve dozens of more crimes in the Keys. The problem is that unless
people know about Crime Stoppers and how to utilize it, the program will not be
as successful as it can be. One way Deputies and Detectives can help is to hand
out Crime Stopper cards (they are available at the substations) at every scene
where you need more information and even at scenes when you dont. The point
is to get the word out about Crime Stoppers. For example, a tipster called in
after finding one of the Crime Stopper cards. The result was the bust of a
sophisticated hydroponics lab growing marijuana in the Upper Keys. The caller
was obviously very close to the criminal enterprise and obviously wanted to stay
anonymous. After the arrest and seizure of over thirteen thousand dollars worth
of pot, the tipster used a special code number to pick up the substantial reward
at a Keys bank.

So, help Crime Stoppers and help yourselves. Pass out those Crime Stopper
cards at every opportunity. If you cant find any at the substations, give
Community Relations a call at 292-7116 and well send you a batch.

Also, if a citizen approaches you and states that they want to provide
information and possibly get a Crime Stoppers reward-thats okay. Tipsters dont
have to be anonymous. Handling this situation is simple: Just get the
information and instruct the tipster to call Crime Stoppers. Tell the tipster to
report the same criminal information to the operator who will give them a code
number. Also, tell the tipster to give your name as a reference so we can
corroborate the information. If an arrest results, the tipster will get a reward
but all the secrecy isnt necessary.

If you have any questions about how Crime Stoppers works, please call
Community Relations Director Greg Artman at 292-7116.

K-9 Team Deputy Todd Tetterton and his Dog Torro show
their stuff for the Accreditation Inspectors.

A new Corrections Transportation Bus will reliably
transport inmates both up and down the Keys, and to other locations.
Pictured is Supervisor of Transportation Anthony Campana and Officer Peco
Broussard.